Navigating the world of treachery can be a slippery slope, but fear not! We’ve compiled a list of the most cutting-edge slang for treacherous situations that will have you feeling like a pro in no time. From backstabbers to deceitful deeds, buckle up as we take you on a linguistic rollercoaster ride through the shadiest lingo around. Get ready to up your game and stay one step ahead of the game with our guide to the top slang for all things treacherous.
Click above to generate some slangs
1. Snake
This term refers to someone who is deceitful or untrustworthy, often used to describe someone who betrays others for personal gain.
- For example, “Watch out for him, he’s a snake. He’ll stab you in the back without hesitation.”
- In a conversation about a dishonest friend, someone might say, “I can’t believe she turned out to be such a snake.”
- A person warning others about a manipulative individual might say, “Don’t trust him, he’s a snake through and through.”
2. Backstabber
This word is used to describe someone who betrays a person’s trust or loyalty, often by pretending to be a friend while secretly causing harm or damage.
- For instance, “I thought she was my friend, but she turned out to be a backstabber.”
- In a discussion about workplace politics, someone might say, “Be careful who you trust, there are backstabbers everywhere.”
- A person warning others about a two-faced individual might say, “Stay away from him, he’s a notorious backstabber.”
3. Two-faced
This term describes someone who acts one way in front of certain people but behaves differently when those people are not around. It implies that the person is deceitful or insincere.
- For example, “I can’t trust her, she’s so two-faced. She says one thing to my face and another behind my back.”
- In a conversation about a dishonest coworker, someone might say, “He’s always smiling and friendly, but he’s really two-faced.”
- A person warning others about a manipulative individual might say, “Don’t be fooled by her charm, she’s two-faced and will use you.”
4. Double-crosser
This term refers to someone who betrays the trust or loyalty of others, often by going against an agreement or turning against their allies.
- For instance, “He promised to help us, but he ended up being a double-crosser.”
- In a discussion about a fictional character’s betrayal, someone might say, “I never expected him to be a double-crosser. It was a shocking twist.”
- A person warning others about a manipulative individual might say, “Don’t trust him, he’s a known double-crosser.”
5. Turncoat
This word is used to describe someone who switches sides or loyalties, often betraying their former allies or cause.
- For example, “He was once a loyal member of the group, but he became a turncoat and joined the enemy.”
- In a conversation about political allegiances, someone might say, “She used to support our party, but now she’s a turncoat.”
- A person warning others about a traitorous individual might say, “Be careful, he’s a turncoat who can’t be trusted.”
6. Benedict Arnold
This term refers to someone who betrays their country or cause. It originates from the American Revolutionary War, where Benedict Arnold famously switched sides and fought for the British. The name “Benedict Arnold” has become synonymous with treachery and betrayal.
- For example, in a political context, someone might say, “He’s a real Benedict Arnold, always switching parties for personal gain.”
- In a discussion about history, a person might comment, “Benedict Arnold’s name will forever be associated with treachery.”
- A friend might jokingly call another friend a Benedict Arnold if they betray their plans or secrets.
7. Traitor
A traitor is someone who deceives or betrays another person or group. In slang terms, a traitor is often referred to as a “backstabber” because they metaphorically stab someone in the back by betraying their trust or loyalty.
- For instance, in a friendship gone sour, one person might say, “I can’t believe she turned out to be such a backstabber.”
- In a discussion about politics, someone might comment, “The traitors within the party are causing chaos and division.”
- A person might warn others by saying, “Watch out for him, he’s a known backstabber.”
8. Deceiver
A deceiver is someone who tricks or deceives others for personal gain. In slang terms, a deceiver is often referred to as a “con artist” or “confidence artist.” These individuals use charm, persuasion, and manipulation to gain the trust of others before exploiting them.
- For example, in a discussion about scams, someone might say, “He’s a master con artist, always coming up with new schemes.”
- In a movie about heists and cons, a character might be described as a “smooth-talking deceiver.”
- A person might warn others by saying, “Don’t fall for his tricks, he’s a notorious con artist.”
9. Judas
Judas is a biblical figure known for betraying Jesus Christ to the authorities. In slang terms, calling someone a “Judas” implies that they have betrayed someone’s trust or loyalty, often for personal gain.
- For instance, in a friendship gone wrong, one person might say, “I never expected her to be such a Judas.”
- In a discussion about loyalty, someone might comment, “Beware of the Judas among you, they will stab you in the back.”
- A person might express their disappointment by saying, “I thought he was a true friend, but he turned out to be a Judas.”
10. Sellout
A sellout is someone who compromises their principles or loyalty for personal gain. In slang terms, a sellout is often referred to as a “turncoat” because they change sides or allegiances, abandoning their previous commitments.
- For example, in a discussion about music, someone might say, “He used to be an underground artist, but now he’s just a sellout.”
- In a political context, a person might comment, “The turncoat politicians are only interested in their own power.”
- A friend might jokingly accuse another friend of being a sellout if they prioritize material gain over their values.
11. Sneaky
This term refers to someone who is sly, cunning, and often engages in underhanded or dishonest behavior.
- For example, “He’s always sneaky and tries to get away with things.”
- In a discussion about a manipulative person, someone might say, “Watch out for her, she’s sneaky.”
- A friend might jokingly comment, “You’re sneaky, I didn’t even see you coming.”
12. Disloyal
This word describes someone who betrays trust, breaks promises, or turns against others.
- For instance, “He’s disloyal to his friends and always puts himself first.”
- In a conversation about relationships, someone might share, “I found out my partner was disloyal and it really hurt.”
- A person discussing a disloyal coworker might say, “It’s hard to work with someone who is constantly undermining others.”
13. Untrustworthy
This term is used to describe someone who cannot be relied upon or trusted to keep their word.
- For example, “He’s untrustworthy and always breaks his promises.”
- In a discussion about a dishonest person, someone might warn, “Don’t trust him, he’s untrustworthy.”
- A person might share their experience, “I learned the hard way that she’s untrustworthy.”
14. Perfidious
This word describes someone who is intentionally dishonest, disloyal, and willing to betray others.
- For instance, “He’s known for his perfidious nature and will do anything to get what he wants.”
- In a conversation about a cunning individual, someone might say, “Beware of her, she’s perfidious.”
- A person discussing a perfidious business partner might comment, “It’s difficult to work with someone so deceitful.”
15. False-hearted
This term refers to someone who is insincere, dishonest, and not true to their word.
- For example, “She’s false-hearted and will say anything to manipulate others.”
- In a discussion about a person’s character, someone might say, “He’s false-hearted and can’t be trusted.”
- A friend might share their experience, “I thought she was genuine, but she turned out to be false-hearted.”
16. Scheming
This term refers to someone who is cunning and manipulative, often plotting behind others’ backs to achieve their own goals.
- For example, “Watch out for that scheming coworker, they always have an ulterior motive.”
- In a TV show or movie, a character might say, “I can’t trust him, he’s always scheming.”
- A friend might warn you, “Be careful, she’s known for her scheming ways.”
17. Underhanded
When someone is described as underhanded, it means they are acting in a deceitful or dishonest manner, often doing things behind others’ backs.
- For instance, “He used some underhanded tactics to win the competition.”
- In a business setting, someone might say, “I don’t trust her, she’s always pulling underhanded moves.”
- A character in a book might be described as “an underhanded villain.”
18. Conniving
This term refers to someone who is crafty and manipulative, often scheming to get what they want.
- For example, “She’s a conniving politician who will do anything to gain power.”
- In a TV show or movie, a character might say, “I can’t believe he connived his way into the CEO position.”
- A friend might warn you about someone, “Stay away from him, he’s conniving and will use you for his own benefit.”
19. Duplicity
Duplicity refers to the act of being deceitful or two-faced, often pretending to be one way while secretly acting in another manner.
- For instance, “Her duplicity was revealed when it was discovered she had been stealing from her friends.”
- In a political context, someone might accuse a politician of “duplicity in their promises.”
- A character in a novel might be described as “a master of duplicity.”
20. Crafty
When someone is described as crafty, it means they are skilled at using their intelligence and cleverness to achieve their goals, often through deceit or trickery.
- For example, “He’s a crafty negotiator who always manages to get what he wants.”
- In a game or competition, someone might be called “a crafty opponent.”
- A friend might describe someone as “crafty like a fox.”
21. Guileful
This term refers to someone who is skilled at deceiving others. It implies a cunning and sly nature.
- For instance, “He used his guileful tactics to manipulate his way to the top.”
- In a discussion about con artists, one might say, “A guileful individual can easily trick people out of their money.”
- A person describing a dishonest politician might say, “He is known for his guileful tactics in gaining power.”
22. Snake in the grass
This phrase is used to describe someone who appears harmless or friendly but is actually treacherous or deceitful.
- For example, “Watch out for him, he’s a real snake in the grass.”
- A person warning others about a backstabbing friend might say, “Don’t trust her, she’s a snake in the grass.”
- In a discussion about manipulative people, someone might comment, “It’s hard to spot a snake in the grass until it’s too late.”
23. Betrayer
This term refers to someone who betrays the trust or confidence of another person. It implies a breaking of loyalty or faith.
- For instance, “He was seen as a betrayer of the team when he leaked their strategies to the opposing side.”
- In a discussion about historical figures, someone might mention, “Julius Caesar’s close friend turned out to be his ultimate betrayer.”
- A person describing a cheating partner might say, “I never expected him to become a betrayer of our relationship.”
24. Schemer
This word describes someone who devises cunning or deceitful plans or schemes to achieve their own goals.
- For example, “He is a schemer who will do whatever it takes to get what he wants.”
- In a discussion about manipulative individuals, someone might say, “Beware of the schemer, they will twist situations to their advantage.”
- A person describing a mastermind behind a criminal operation might say, “The schemer orchestrated the entire heist with precision.”
25. Con artist
This term refers to someone who uses deceit and trickery to defraud or swindle others for personal gain.
- For instance, “The con artist convinced unsuspecting victims to invest in a fake business.”
- In a discussion about online scams, someone might warn, “Be careful of con artists posing as legitimate sellers.”
- A person describing a skilled manipulator might say, “He’s a con artist who can convince anyone to do his bidding.”
26. Trickster
A trickster is someone who deceives or manipulates others for their own gain or amusement. The term is often used to describe someone who is cunning, crafty, and skilled at deception.
- For example, a character in a story might be described as a trickster who is always coming up with clever schemes.
- In a political context, a trickster might be someone who uses deceitful tactics to gain power or influence.
- A person might say, “Watch out for that guy, he’s a real trickster.”
27. Machiavellian
Machiavellian refers to a person who is cunning, manipulative, and willing to use deceit and manipulation to achieve their goals. The term comes from Niccolò Machiavelli, an Italian political philosopher known for his book “The Prince,” which discusses the use of cunning and manipulation in politics.
- For instance, a character in a movie might be described as Machiavellian for their ability to manipulate others.
- In a discussion about politics, someone might say, “That politician is definitely Machiavellian in their approach.”
- A person might warn, “Beware of those who are Machiavellian, they will stop at nothing to get what they want.”
28. Sly
Sly is a term used to describe someone who is cunning, crafty, and skilled at deception. It implies a sense of sneakiness and cleverness in how they manipulate others.
- For example, a character in a book might be described as sly for their ability to outsmart others.
- In a conversation about someone’s behavior, a person might say, “He’s always up to something sly.”
- A person might warn, “Don’t trust him, he’s known for his sly tricks.”
29. Devious
Devious refers to someone who is dishonest, deceitful, and willing to use underhanded tactics to achieve their goals. It implies a sense of cunning and manipulation in how they navigate situations.
- For instance, a character in a TV show might be described as devious for their ability to manipulate others.
- In a discussion about someone’s behavior, a person might say, “She’s always coming up with devious plans.”
- A person might caution, “Be careful around him, he’s known for his devious ways.”
30. Unfaithful
Unfaithful refers to someone who is not loyal or trustworthy. While it can be used in various contexts, it can also be slang for someone who cheats or betrays others.
- For example, in a romantic relationship, someone might be described as unfaithful if they cheat on their partner.
- In a discussion about friendships, a person might say, “I can’t believe she was unfaithful to her best friend.”
- A person might express their disappointment by saying, “He’s proven himself to be unfaithful time and time again.”
31. Deceptive
This word is used to describe someone or something that is misleading or dishonest. It implies that the person or thing is trying to trick or deceive others.
- For example, “He gave me a deceptive smile before stealing my wallet.”
- In a discussion about politics, someone might say, “Politicians often use deceptive tactics to gain votes.”
- A person warning others might say, “Be careful, that company has a deceptive advertising campaign.”
32. Traitorous
This term describes someone who betrays their loyalty or trust, often to a cause or person they were previously aligned with.
- For instance, “He was labeled as traitorous after leaking classified information.”
- In a historical context, someone might say, “Benedict Arnold is known as one of the most traitorous figures in American history.”
- A person discussing relationships might say, “Cheating on your partner is a traitorous act.”
33. Treasonous
This word is similar to traitorous and refers to actions that betray one’s country, organization, or cause. It often implies a severe betrayal of trust or allegiance.
- For example, “The spy was executed for committing treasonous acts against his country.”
- In a political discussion, someone might accuse a leader of being treasonous by saying, “His actions are a clear betrayal of the people he is supposed to represent.”
- A person discussing history might say, “Throughout history, there have been many treasonous acts committed by individuals seeking personal gain.”
34. Shady
This slang term is used to describe someone or something that is untrustworthy, suspicious, or involved in illegal or dishonest activities.
- For instance, “I don’t trust that guy, he seems really shady.”
- In a discussion about business practices, someone might say, “The company’s shady accounting practices eventually led to its downfall.”
- A person warning others might say, “Stay away from that neighborhood, it’s known for its shady characters.”
35. Unscrupulous
This word is used to describe someone who lacks moral principles or is willing to act dishonestly or unethically to achieve their goals.
- For example, “The unscrupulous businessman cheated his clients out of millions of dollars.”
- In a discussion about politics, someone might say, “We need leaders who are not only competent but also unscrupulous.”
- A person discussing the behavior of a public figure might say, “His unscrupulous actions have damaged his reputation and credibility.”
36. Slippery
This term is used to describe someone or something that is not reliable or cannot be trusted. It implies that the person or thing is slippery like ice and can easily deceive or betray.
- For example, “Watch out for him, he’s a slippery character who can’t be trusted.”
- In a discussion about politics, someone might say, “Politicians are known for their slippery nature and evasive answers.”
- A person might warn, “Be careful with that company, they have a slippery reputation in the business world.”
37. False
This word is used to describe someone or something that is not genuine or truthful. It implies that the person or thing is pretending to be something they’re not.
- For instance, “Don’t believe his promises, they’re all false.”
- In a conversation about relationships, someone might say, “He presented himself as a caring partner, but it turned out to be false.”
- A person might warn, “Beware of false friends who only pretend to support you.”
38. Deceitful
This term is used to describe someone or something that is intentionally misleading or dishonest. It implies that the person or thing is actively trying to deceive or trick others.
- For example, “He’s a deceitful person who can’t be trusted.”
- In a discussion about scams, someone might say, “Be aware of deceitful tactics used by fraudsters to steal your personal information.”
- A person might caution, “Don’t fall for their deceitful promises, they’re only trying to take advantage of you.”
39. Fickle
This word is used to describe someone or something that is not consistent or dependable. It implies that the person or thing is prone to changing their mind or behavior unpredictably.
- For instance, “Don’t rely on him, he’s too fickle.”
- In a conversation about fashion trends, someone might say, “Fashion can be fickle, what’s popular today might be outdated tomorrow.”
- A person might comment, “The stock market can be fickle, it’s important to stay informed and make informed decisions.”
40. Misleading
This term is used to describe someone or something that gives a false or inaccurate impression. It implies that the person or thing is intentionally leading others astray or causing them to have a wrong understanding.
- For example, “The advertisement was misleading, it didn’t accurately represent the product.”
- In a discussion about news headlines, someone might say, “Be cautious of misleading headlines that aim to grab attention but don’t reflect the full story.”
- A person might warn, “Don’t be fooled by their misleading statements, they’re trying to manipulate the truth.”
41. Unreliable
This term is used to describe someone or something that cannot be relied upon or trusted to fulfill their obligations or commitments.
- For example, “I can’t count on him to show up on time, he’s so unreliable.”
- In a discussion about a faulty product, someone might say, “The company has a reputation for producing unreliable electronics.”
- A person might warn, “Be careful who you confide in, there are a lot of unreliable people out there.”
42. Faithless
This term refers to someone who does not remain loyal or faithful, particularly in relationships or commitments.
- For instance, “She cheated on him multiple times, she’s completely faithless.”
- In a conversation about a disloyal friend, one might say, “I thought I could trust her, but she turned out to be faithless.”
- A person might advise, “Don’t waste your time on someone who is constantly proving themselves to be faithless.”
43. Corrupt
This term is used to describe someone or something that is dishonest, morally bankrupt, or engaged in illegal or unethical behavior.
- For example, “The corrupt politician was caught accepting bribes.”
- In a discussion about a company involved in fraudulent activities, someone might say, “The corrupt executives were eventually brought to justice.”
- A person might warn, “Be careful of corrupt individuals who will try to take advantage of you.”
44. Infamous
This term is used to describe someone or something that is well-known for their negative actions, behavior, or reputation.
- For instance, “He became infamous for his role in the scandal.”
- In a conversation about a notorious criminal, one might say, “The infamous bank robber was finally captured.”
- A person might comment, “That restaurant is infamous for its terrible service.”
45. Insidious
This term refers to something that is treacherous or deceitful in a way that is not immediately apparent, often causing harm or damage over time.
- For example, “The insidious effects of the toxic chemicals were not immediately noticeable.”
- In a discussion about a manipulative person, someone might say, “She had an insidious way of twisting the truth to get what she wanted.”
- A person might warn, “Beware of the insidious nature of addiction, it can slowly take over your life.”
46. Machinating
This term refers to the act of scheming or plotting, often with an intention to deceive or manipulate others.
- For example, “He is always machinating behind the scenes to gain power.”
- In a political context, one might say, “The politicians were machinating to pass the controversial bill.”
- A character in a thriller novel might be described as “a master of machinating,“a master of machinating, always one step ahead of the others.”
47. Pernicious
Pernicious describes something that is extremely harmful or destructive, often in a subtle or gradual way.
- For instance, “The pernicious effects of pollution on the environment.”
- In a discussion about social media, one might say, “The pernicious influence of fake news on public opinion.”
- A person warning about a dangerous situation might say, “Beware of the pernicious consequences of getting involved with the wrong people.”
48. Sinister
Sinister describes something that is evil, threatening, or ominous in nature.
- For example, “He had a sinister smile on his face.”
- In a horror movie, a character might say, “There’s something sinister lurking in the shadows.”
- A person discussing a suspicious individual might say, “He had a sinister aura about him, like he was up to no good.”
49. Slyboots
Slyboots is a slang term used to describe a person who is cunning, deceitful, or tricky in their actions.
- For instance, “Watch out for that slyboots, he can’t be trusted.”
- In a conversation about a manipulative friend, one might say, “She’s a real slyboots, always playing mind games.”
- A character in a mystery novel might be described as “a slyboots detective,“a slyboots detective, always one step ahead of everyone else.”
50. Snide
Snide describes something that is derogatory, mocking, or contemptuous in nature.
- For example, “He made a snide remark about her appearance.”
- In a heated argument, one might say, “Stop with the snide comments, they’re not helping.”
- A person discussing a sarcastic friend might say, “He has a snide sense of humor, always making biting remarks.”
51. Subversive
This term refers to someone or something that seeks to undermine or overthrow an established system or authority. It suggests a hidden or secretive nature.
- For example, “The spy was part of a subversive organization that aimed to destabilize the government.”
- In a political discussion, one might say, “The subversive actions of certain groups threaten the stability of our society.”
- A writer might describe a character as “a subversive figure working behind the scenes to manipulate events.”
52. Treacherous
This word describes someone or something that is not to be trusted, often because they are capable of betraying or causing harm. It implies a sense of danger or risk.
- For instance, “The treacherous path through the mountains was filled with hidden dangers.”
- In a relationship, one might say, “She discovered his treacherous nature when she found out he was cheating.”
- A writer might describe a character as “a treacherous villain who plots to overthrow the hero.”
53. Vicious
This term describes someone or something that is extremely violent or aggressive, often causing harm or destruction. It suggests a lack of mercy or compassion.
- For example, “The vicious dog attacked without warning, biting anyone who came near.”
- In a heated argument, one might say, “He launched a vicious personal attack on his opponent.”
- A writer might describe a fight scene as “a vicious battle between two skilled warriors.”
54. Wicked
This word describes someone or something that is morally wrong or sinful. It implies a sense of immorality or wrongdoing.
- For instance, “The wicked witch cast a spell on the princess, turning her into a frog.”
- In a fairy tale, one might say, “The wicked stepmother plotted to kill Snow White out of jealousy.”
- A writer might describe a character as “a wicked sorcerer who seeks to gain ultimate power.”
55. Machinator
This term refers to someone who devises intricate and cunning plans or schemes, often with a malicious or deceitful intent. It suggests a sense of manipulation or manipulation.
- For example, “The machinator orchestrated a complex scheme to steal valuable artifacts.”
- In a mystery novel, one might say, “The detective suspected the machinator behind the series of mysterious disappearances.”
- A writer might describe a character as “a master machinator who pulls the strings from behind the scenes.”